Evaluation of smart gelatin matrices for the development of scaffolds via 3D bioprinting

Throughout history, different techniques have been used for the development of scaffolds for Tissue Engineering. Among them, three-dimensional (3D) printing for this application has been recently enhanced due to its ease in defining the structure of the material. In this sense, a novel potential alternative could be the development of a three-part device whose leading utility is to improve the introduction of the scaffold in a bioreactor. Thus, the device consists of a polycaprolactone support on which smart gelatin (GE) matrix, and finally, on top, a collagen (C) scaffold. This gelatin matrix is included to integrate the scaffold into the support, but once both are assembled, it must be removed, leaving only the support and the scaffold. Thus, in the present work, a small gelatin matrix has been evaluated. To this end, matrices with different gelatin percentages were studied, evaluating their mechanical and morphological properties at different temperatures (22 and 37 °C) to control their deposition and elimination. The results show the high application of this smart matrix for the development of scaffolds via 3D bioprinting for Tissue Engineering.